Como's Baturina backed for Real Madrid move by Mate Bilic

Bilic, who won seven caps for Croatia and spent much of his club career in Spain, highlighted Baturina during an interview with Cadena SER ahead of Croatia’s meeting with Spain.

The 23-year-old joined Como and has continued his development under Cesc Fàbregas, with his performances earning him a place in Croatia’s senior squad and experience in the Champions League.

Bilic does not see Baturina as a direct replacement for Luka Modric, but believes his style could suit Madrid.

“He is not a Modric profile, but he is a very interesting player,” Bilic said. “I can see his way of playing at Real Madrid.”

The former striker was particularly impressed by Baturina’s mobility and use of the ball, as well as his willingness to play forwards.

“He has mobility, moves the ball very well and is vertical,” Bilic added.

Baturina made the move to Como from Dinamo Zagreb in 2025 and has continued his development in Italy. His work with Fàbregas has been an important part of that progression, according to Bilic, who believes the midfielder can continue improving with regular exposure to Champions League football.

“He has improved a lot with Cesc Fàbregas and hopefully he continues like that, improving and playing in the Champions League,” Bilic said.

Baturina is under contract with Como until 2030, giving the Italian club a strong position should interest in the midfielder develop into a formal approach.

For now, there is no indication of a Real Madrid offer. Bilic’s comments instead represent an assessment of where the Croatian could eventually play, with the former Spain-based forward convinced that Baturina has the technical qualities required at the highest level.

“I hope he can sign for a big club, so he could end up at Real Madrid,” Bilic said.

The comparison with Modric is inevitable given the midfielder’s Croatian background and his long association with Madrid, but Bilic was careful to distinguish the two players. His argument is that Baturina could offer Madrid a different profile while continuing to develop under Fàbregas in Como.